Reader Tim wrote in asking for help choosing a new tool belt for work. He is an electrician and currently wears a Klein 9-pocket tool pouch on his right side, and a 3-pocket utility pouch in his left side.
Usually when I think of tool belt, I think of the large one-size-fits-everything jobs that are designed to carry one or more framing hammers, dozens of nails, screws or other fasteners, and an assortment of tools.
Most of the tool belts I would ordinarily recommend don’t seem to be well suited for electricians’ needs. Off the top of my head I know that Dewalt makes an Electrician’s Combo Tool Belt (~$70 via Amazon) and that Milwaukee has a few general purpose offerings.
Even if you’re not an electrician, your tool belt recommendations would be most appreciated.
Thanks, Tim, for the great question!
I’m an electrician, but I don’t use a tool belt.
My particular location doesn’t really call for it.
If I did though, I’ve been tempted by ToughBuilt brand.
I’ve seen them at my local Menards.
I like the innovation where you can take sections of the belt on or off.
As for the brand, I own the bolt cutters. They work just as well as any, and fold up, which is great for storage.
http://toughbuilt.com
http://toughbuilt.com/images/pic04.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/BRrfG.png
http://www.costcoconnection.com/connection/200610/?pg=74#pg74
ToughBuilt Pouches & Tool Belts on Amazon
Norm, thanks for the recommendation! Taking a closer look at the ToughBuilt options, wow, I love how they belts can be modular and configured as needed.
When I was a low-voltage technician (I know, not a real electrician), I preferred a small pouch for my shears, punchdown tool, and 10-in-1 screwdriver. I kept all the other stuff in an open tool bag that was easy to carry around from room to room as I worked on terminations. All the new guys started off with tool belts, but for that line of work you quickly realize you don’t need all your tools on your person on a day to day basis.
Of course, you might have to worry about tools walking away from you if you keep them in a bag, but it might be a nice option depending on your needs and situation.